Classical and Structural Realism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4000 words

Classical and Structural Realism - Essay Example This paper aims to discuss and analyze Classical and Structural Realism. It compares and contrasts these two branches of Realism. With the use of relevant examples and appropriate analysis, it is hoped that the differences and similarities between the two can be thoroughly discussed. In this analysis, the US behavior was used as a model due to the fact that it is the world’s lone superpower and is thus the main actor in the play called international relations. Before discussing Classical and Structural Realism, it is appropriate and proper to first define what Realism is. This approach provides a rational and realistic view of how international affairs are acted. It is based on the way things are done and not on the way things should be done. The way it views the world’s international affairs utilizes that of a scientific method – based on facts and not in abstract ideas, based on the analysis of the causes and consequences of the events. It is logical and not im aginary. Machiavelli captured the essence of Realism with the following statement. An example of an international event that is viewed as using the â€Å"imaginary† and â€Å"utopian† approach is that of the Kellogg –Briand Pact which outlawed any more wars. This was a consequence of the bitter experience of World War I. The proponents unrealistically assumed that war would never happen again and that the signatories would comply with what they have agreed upon. An example of a realistic view was provided by Waltz when he viewed the spread of nuclear weapons.